These Paleo Protein Bars Curb Hunger With Coconut, Cashews, and Collagen

Not all snacks are created equal. If you frequently reach less-than-healthy options like crunchy potato chips or sugary candy (tempting, we know!), you’re missing an opportunity to fuel your body with the nutrients it needs to feel full and energized.

Protein bars are popular for a reason—they’re ready to eat whenever you need them, portable, and filling. Thrive Market member Megan loves the Coconut Cashew Collagen Bars from Primal Kitchen. “These bars have only 3 grams of sugar and aren’t overly sweet,” she says. “They really fill me up, keep me going for hours because of the protein. I stock up on these so I’m not tempted to keep candy in the house!”

Let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients that make these bars worth keeping in your purse or pantry.

Coconuts
Coconuts contain iron, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin C, as well as medium-chain triglycerides, a type of healthy fat.

Cashews
One of the benefits of eating cashews is their relatively low fat content compared to other nuts. Cashews also contain heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, like those found in olive oil, which have been associated with reducing triglyceride levels.

Collagen
If this ingredient sounds like something that’s better suited for your skincare routine than your diet, hear us out! Our bodies are filled at least 16 types of collagen, but the most popular is Type 1, and it’s stored in our muscles, bones, digestive tracts, and tendons. Because collagen naturally declines as we age, it may be helpful to add it to your diet by eating gelatinous meats (meat next to the joints or bone), drinking bone broth, or snacking on collagen bars.

Honey
Honey is a sweetener, yes, but unlike refined sugar, it’s also filled with amino acids, minerals, and antioxidants.

Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds can be easier to digest because they contain multiple types of vitamin E. They also contain phosphorus, manganese, magnesium, copper, zinc, and healthy fats like omega-3s.

Chia Seeds
Chia are a small but mighty ingredient. A single serving supplies all nine essential amino acids (typically only available in animal protein), plus omega-3s and antioxidants. And studies suggest they may help curb hunger.

Photo credit: Ella Ciamacco